South Carolina Open Carry: Laws, Requirements, Application & Online Training

South Carolina Open Carry: Laws, Requirements, Application & Online Training Introduction South Carolina allows the use of firearms within its borders, but it comes with certain location restrictions and limitations on the types of firearms allowed. To ensure compliance with state gun laws, it is essential to be familiar with how and where firearms can be handled in South Carolina. South Carolina Gun Laws Summary South Carolina operates as a shall-issue state, where concealed weapon permits are issued for the possession of firearms. The law enforcement division is responsible for approving applications for concealed carry permits. Once all requirements are met, the application is approved, granting the individual the right to carry concealed firearms. Age Requirement and Criminal Record Check To obtain a South Carolina concealed weapon permit, the applicant must be at least twenty-one years old. It is important to note that South Carolina does not issue a purchase permit. However, before purchasing a firearm, individuals are required to undergo a criminal record check. Exceptions to this check include those buying from private dealers and individuals with a valid state concealed weapon permit. Open Carry Laws in South Carolina Unlike some states, South Carolina does not allow open carry of handguns. The state follows a non-permissive policy for the open carry of firearms. However, concealed carry permits are available for those who meet the requirements. Restrictions on Firearms and Ammunition South Carolina also prohibits the possession and use of certain firearms and ammunition. Teflon-coated ammunition and machine firearms are not allowed, except for individuals with federal licenses, military members, and law enforcement officers in the state. Quick View of South Carolina's Open Gun Laws Law/Policy Long Guns Handguns Comments State permit for open carry No No South Carolina does not accept the open carry of firearms in the state. Firearm registrations for open carry No No There are no requirements to register firearms in the state. Assault weapon for open carry No No South Carolina prohibits the open carry of firearms such as machine guns and semi-automatic firearms, except with legal permission. Magazine limit No No The state gun statutes do not specify any magazine limits. License for the owner of a firearm Not required Not required South Carolina statutes do not require any special license for firearm owners in the state. Red flag law No No South Carolina does not have a red flag law or any extreme risk protection order issued to people at risk. Castle doctrine law Yes Yes South Carolina is a castle doctrine state, allowing individuals to stand their ground in their dwelling place, business place, and anywhere they have legal rights to be. Background check for private dealers No No South Carolina does not require private dealers to run a criminal record check before selling firearms. Preemption Yes Yes South Carolina is a preemption gun law state, reserving all rights to regulate the use of firearms to the state government. Concealed carry permit Yes Yes A South Carolina concealed carry permit is required for concealed carrying of firearms in the state. Concealed carry in personal vehicle Yes Yes Concealed carry is allowed in private vehicles as long as the individual possesses a valid state permit. Possession of firearms in schools No No South Carolina prohibits the possession of firearms and other deadly weapons in schools, colleges, and other educational institutions. Where Is It Legal To Open Carry In South Carolina? South Carolina permits the possession of firearms in the following areas: 1. Restaurants and Bars: You can possess your firearm in restaurants and bars in the state, as long as there is no signage prohibiting it. 2. Personal Vehicle: Firearms can be possessed in your private vehicle as long as they are locked away in a compartment or the trunk. 3. Roadside Areas: South Carolina does not restrict the possession of firearms in roadside areas of the state. 4. State Forests and Parks: Firearms are allowed in forests, parks, and wildlife management areas. Where Is It Illegal To Open Carry In South Carolina? South Carolina prohibits the use and possession of firearms in the following areas: 1. Schools: Firearms are not allowed in schools, including primary and secondary educational institutions, universities, and other educational facilities. 2. Public Properties: The use of firearms is prohibited in public buildings accessible to the public, except with explicit permission. 3. School Events: Firearms are not allowed at events organized by schools or colleges. 4. Daycare: Firearms are not allowed in any daycare or facility intended for the care of children. 5. Government Buildings: Firearms are prohibited in any building owned by the state government or its subdivisions. 6. Law Enforcement Agencies: Firearms are not allowed in law enforcement agencies or properties used for their day-to-day activities. 7. Detention Facilities: Firearms are prohibited in state prisons, jails, or correctional facilities. 8. Polling Units: Possession of firearms is prohibited in any part of the state used as a polling place during elections. 9. Places of Worship: Firearms are not allowed in churches, synagogues, mosques, or other places of worship, unless permitted by the authorities. 10. Health Care Centers: Firearms are not allowed in hospitals, mental health facilities, clinics, doctor's offices, or administrative offices unless permission is granted. 11. Private Properties: Firearms are not allowed in any private property or building that displays signage restricting weapons. 12. Hotels and Guest Houses: The use or possession of firearms is not allowed in lodging establishments if management prohibits it. 13. State Capitol Premises: Possession of firearms is prohibited in the state capitol building or its premises, except when locked away and concealed in a vehicle. 14. Prohibited Areas: Firearms are not allowed in areas of the state prohibited by federal laws. Relevant Open Carry Laws And Legislature In South Carolina 1. Ammunition Restrictions: Section sixteen of the state statutes prohibits the manufacturing and possession of Teflon-coated ammunition in South Carolina. 2. No Weapon Sign: South Carolina enforces "no weapon" signs, which must be displayed at entrances to prohibit weapons on the premises. The signs must meet specific criteria to be valid. 3. Preemption Law: South Carolina is a preemption gun law state, giving the state government the authority to regulate the use and possession of firearms. However, local municipalities have the power to regulate negligent use and discharge of firearms within their boundaries. 4. Brandishing Of Firearms: It is unlawful to point a firearm at another person, loaded or unloaded, except in cases of self-defense or theatrical use. 5. Possession Of Firearm While Under The Influence Of Alcohol: The use of firearms under the influence of alcohol, narcotics, or prohibited substances is prohibited. 6. Open Carry While Hunting: Possessing a firearm while hunting is allowed, but for bow hunting, a permit is required. Primitive hunting seasons only allow the use of archery equipment and muzzleloaders. Conclusion Understanding South Carolina's gun laws is crucial for responsible gun ownership in the state. Complying with location restrictions and adhering to specific regulations ensures a safe environment for all residents. By following these laws, gun owners can exercise their rights responsibly while contributing to public safety. FAQs Can I openly carry a handgun in South Carolina? No, South Carolina does not allow open carry of handguns. The state follows a non-permissive policy for open carrying. Can I possess firearms in restaurants and bars in South Carolina? Yes, you can possess firearms in restaurants and bars in South Carolina as long as there are no signs prohibiting it. Is there a magazine limit for firearms in South Carolina? No, South Carolina's gun statutes do not specify any magazine limits. Can I possess firearms in my personal vehicle in South Carolina? Yes, you can carry a concealed firearm in your private vehicle if you have a valid state permit. Are there restrictions on carrying firearms in schools in South Carolina? Yes, South Carolina prohibits the possession of firearms and other deadly weapons in schools, colleges, and other educational institutions.